Page 122 of Uniquely in Love

My heart fluttered as I blew him a kiss back.

We were Ellie & Owen. Hockey Boy & Skater Girl. We could get through anything.

We would, right?

THIRTY-SEVEN

Owen

December came in the blink of an eye, and every day brought us closer to the holidays. Unfortunately, that also meant my family’s quick trip was over.

“It’s always great to have you guys here,” I said, wrapping my arms around my mom for a hug. I loved when they came up to visit.

There were so many things I missed about Portland. But the NHL didn’t have a team there, and I was just glad to be in Seattle. What would happen if the team tried to transfer me somewhere like Florida, on the opposite side of the country from my family? I wasn’t sure I could accept that, because I couldn’t imagine leaving here. But hockey wasn’t forever.

One day, I liked to think we’d end up back in Portland, raising a family there.

My dad hugged me next. “Don’t be a stranger, son.”

I looked over at Ellie, who was animatedly talking to my sister, her eyes bright and cheeks pink. So fucking happy, and she lit up the whole damn room when she smiled. I cleared my throat, looking away. “I’ll be home in a few weeks,” I promised. “We’re bringing Zambi down for Christmas.” Forthe first time in a long time, I was really looking forward to going home, because this time, Ellie was going to be at my side.

“Let us know if you want us to make up your old room,” Mom added. “Or if you and Ellie want to stay somewhere else?—”

“I will, Mom,” I said, cutting her off. The back of my neck was probably red, but I definitely didn’t need to discuss my girlfriend and I’s sleeping habits with my mother. Nor did I need her talking about it with Ellie’s mom.

We hadn’t discussed it yet, but I didn’t really care whose house we slept at, as long as I could sleep with her in my arms. It was the thing I missed the most every time we were on the road. With Ellie nestled against my body, and Zamboni sleeping at our feet, I had my entire world right next to me. God, I fucking loved it.

Mom lowered her voice. “Take care of her, Owen. I know how much she means to you. Don’t let her go.”

“I don’t intend to.”

Another promise I didn’t plan on breaking. I’d started ring shopping, and I was going to ask her dad when we got into town. Just like I’d asked him all those years ago for permission to date his daughter.

It was crazy to think that almost ten years had passed since then. Since I’d taken her to prom, and she’d been the most beautiful girl in the room. I’d been a goner long before that, but damn.

Ellie was it for me. Always had been.

“Love you guys.”

Penny and Ellie hugged, and then she came to stand at my side, wrapping her arm around mine and leaning on my shoulder as we stood at the curb.

“Hi, baby,” I said, pressing a kiss to the crown of her head. “You good?”

“Yeah.” Her voice was soft. “I just didn’t realize how much I missed them until they came up to visit.”

We watched my family load up in the car and drive away, and I hugged her tight. “We’ll be home in a few weeks,” I said to her.

“I know.” She snuggled into me. “And while I’m looking forward to it, I’m also glad to have you back to myself for a bit.”

“I couldn’t agree more.” Cupping her cheeks, I looked down at her. “I wish I didn’t have to leave you again so soon.” Just when we were alone, I had another away series.

“I hate that you have to go,” Ellie said, giving me a little pout.

Running my hand down her hair, I cupped the back of her head. “I know.” This was our longest road trip of the season—with six away games in a row—and I already hated the idea of being gone for so long. But at least at the end, we’d be that much closer to leaving for Portland.

Ellie sighed as she rested her head against my chest. “Hockey is important, Owen. I know that. I don’t expect you to sacrifice anything for me.”

Little did she know I would sacrifice the world for her. Gladly. If I had to, I’d give up my career tomorrow to be with her. I could go back to school and finish my degree, plus I’d already made more money than I knew what to do with for my entire life. If I invested wisely, there was no reason I’d have to worry. “You’re worth it,” I said against her lips. “Don’t ever doubt that, Ellie baby.”

---